Built on its very own platform, the next Disco will share bits and pieces with Ford’s Explorer, an engine rumored to be co-developed with Peugeot (a 2.7-liter V-6), and possibly even a V-8 borrowed from Jaguar. But, even with all the international input, production will remain in the United Kingdom.

Short- and long-wheelbase versions are expected to be available, with seating options for five or seven. Styling will remain traditional with the “Alpine” roof windows and a stepped roofline, but details will be updated and modernized. Both on-road and off-road handling is said to be improved in the vehicle, code-named the L319, and it’s just about ready for the production line.

The current Land Rover Discovery has been on the market since 1998 and will be replaced by an all-new model in autumn next year. It will appear in the U.S. in early 2005 as a 2005 model. The photos are showing disguised prototypes of the new seven-seater, but our computer illustration reveals the Range Rover’s undeniable influence. The next-generation Discovery will no longer have the spare wheel mounted on the rear door but under the boot floor, though the Discovery will maintain the characteristic “step” in the roofline.